The Sabine Women

This book explores the enduring and complex story of the Sabine women—a pivotal event in Rome's legendary founding—and how it has been depicted by artists over centuries. While often summarized as an abduction, the narrative reveals a surprising twist: the women ultimately intervened to end the war, transforming the story into a symbol of reconciliation. Through examining various artworks and their historical context, the book delves into what these retellings reveal about the artists, their motives, and the stories we tell about origin and conflict.